According to the Spring City Police, “sources” at the Highview Garden Apartments tipped police off that there was a “drug dealing operation ... well underway at the location.”

After an investigation, developing informants and maing controlled purchases, a search warrant for the apartment leased by Thomas was obtained.

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On March 1, around 9:40 a.m., police executed the warrant and discovered a “significant amount” of cocaine and marijuana, as well as a “large amount of cutting agent” along with drug paraphernalia.

All “contraband” was seized, including $500 and “valuable items believed to have been purchased with the cash proceeds” from dealing the drugs.

In the release announcing the arrests, the Royersford, Phoenixville and East Pikeland Police Departments, as well as the Chester County Detectives, are credited in aiding the Spring City Police in the arrests.

Thomas and Hampton were arrested and arraigned before Magisterial District Justice Theodore Michaels. In lieu of $50,000 cash bail, both were taken to Chester County Prison.

No strangers to law enforcement, Thomas and Hampton have been arrested before.

Thomas was set to begin a trial March 11 for similar drug charges dating to September in East Pikeland, according to court documents. He was out on unsecured $35,000 bail.

Hampton has several past arrests to his name, also according to court documents, including charges of assault, disorderly conduct (engaging in fighting) and resisting arrest. Most charges are out of Pottstown and stretch as far back as 2007.

In light of the cocaine operation being shut down through tips from concerned residents, the Spring City Police encourage anyone to call in with information on suspected drug activity at 610-948-3456. Police insist all sources will remain confidential and all incidents will be investigated.

About the Author

Frank Otto is a general assignment reporter covering Phoenixville, Limerick and Spring-Ford schools in addition to features and spot news. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Otto moonlights with the sports department on occasion. Reach the author at fotto@pottsmerc.com
or follow Frank on Twitter: @fottojourno.